Gasoline is going to get outragous, so think about mileage. In general, euro cars are more expensive to maintian (parts tend to cost more for them). I love my acura rsx type-s. Currently, it has over a 100k miles and still drives like a dream. A great commuter car.

I ran into a Porsche owner the other day who said his mint, 1998 Boxster with 78K miles is only worth $9K. There are older Porsches out there with low miles for a low price. Otherwise, I like the suggestion of a Mini.

Save your money and get a new Honda Fit instead of a used Civic. The Civics tend to hold their value well. A new Fit (or a Nissan Versa or Toyota Yaris or Scion xD) are better value propositions than a used Civic.

Also, a 10K European car will cost WAY, WAY more in the long run in repairs and service.

I didn't think so; regardless, that's the better outcome. On topic point -- perhaps a used little Pontiac convertible or a Miata? The Saturn convertible is really nice but probably too pricey on the secondary market. ~ Huntsman

Save your money and get a new Honda Fit instead of a used Civic. The Civics tend to hold their value well. A new Fit (or a Nissan Versa or Toyota Yaris or Scion xD) are better value propositions than a used Civic.

Also, a 10K European car will cost WAY, WAY more in the long run in repairs and service.